Eight years ago today I married my best friend. I don't think I realized how rare that is. How few people that actually happens to. This year, there is just too much to say. I can't seem to summon the words to express how important R and his love for me is.

We have a tradition on our anniversary to get cake from the bakery who made our wedding cake. I have my own tradition of pulling out our wedding program and re-reading it. I do not ever finish it without tears in my eyes. Our program was a book, really. With all the song titles, wedding party details that you typically see. In addition, ours had all the readings, prayers, etc. written out for those in attendance to follow along. I do not often flaunt my faith or religion....but today, because I am struggling for the words....I'm going to copy down the final blessing the Priest read at our wedding. For whatever reason, it is very prophetic this year. How lucky we are, indeed.

May almighty God, with his word of blessing, unite your hearts in the never ending bond of pure love.

May your children bring you happiness, and may your generous love for them be returned to you, many times over.

May the peace of Christ live always in your hearts and in your home. May you have true friends to stand by you, both in joy and in sorrow. May you be ready and willing to help and comfort all who come to you in need. And may the blessings promised to the compassionate be yours in abundance.

May you find happiness and satisfaction in your work. May daily problems never cause you undue anxiety, nor the desire for earthly possessions dominate your lives. But may your hearts' first desire be always the good things waiting for you in the life of heaven.

May the Lord bless you with many happy years together, so that you may enjoy the rewards of a good life. And after you have served him loyally in his kingdom on Earth, may he welcome you to his kingdom in heaven.